The Basics of DoorDash Pricing
When placing an order on DoorDash, the total cost includes several components beyond just the food price. Understanding these costs can help you make informed decisions and budget accordingly.
Base Menu Prices
Restaurant prices on DoorDash may be higher than in-store prices, as restaurants often increase prices to offset DoorDash's commission fees, which can range from 15-30%.
Types of Fees
-
Delivery Fee
- Typically ranges from $1.99 to $5.99
- Varies based on:
- Distance from restaurant
- Current demand
- Weather conditions
- Restaurant partnership status
-
Service Fee
- Usually 10-15% of your order subtotal
- Helps cover DoorDash's operational costs
- Separate from the delivery fee
-
Small Order Fee
- Applies to orders below $10-$12 (varies by location)
- Typically around $2.50
- Encourages customers to place larger orders
Peak Pricing and Hidden Costs
During high-demand periods, DoorDash implements "peak pricing" or "surge pricing," which can significantly increase delivery fees.
Markup Comparison Example
| Item | Restaurant Price | DoorDash Price | Markup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burger | $10.00 | $12.00 | 20% |
| Fries | $4.00 | $4.75 | 19% |
| Drink | $2.50 | $3.00 | 20% |
Tipping on DoorDash
"Tips are an essential part of Dasher earnings and are separate from DoorDash's base pay." - DoorDash Help Center
Recommended tipping guidelines:
- Standard tip: 15-20% of the order subtotal
- Higher tips (20%+) recommended for:
- Large orders
- Bad weather
- Long distances
- Complex deliveries
Money-Saving Strategies
-
DashPass Subscription
- $9.99/month for DashPass
- $0 delivery fees
- Reduced service fees
- Exclusive promotions
-
Additional Savings Tips
- Compare prices with restaurant direct ordering
- Look for promo codes on sites like RetailMeNot
- Order during off-peak hours
- Combine orders with friends
- Consider pickup options
Real Cost Example
Base menu items: $40.00
Service fee (11%): $4.40
Delivery fee: $3.99
Tax (varies by location): ~$3.60
Recommended tip (15%): $6.00
--------------------------
Total: $57.99
For more detailed information, you can visit DoorDash's official website or check their help center for specific queries.
By understanding these various components and using available cost-saving strategies, you can enjoy the convenience of DoorDash while managing your expenses effectively.